JD's eyes widened slightly as he ran a hand through his hair, exhaling in sheer exasperation.
No connections? No alliances?
In business, networking was everything. Deals weren't always made on paper—most of them happened in the shadows of social circles, at galas, in whispered conversations over expensive drinks. She would have had a chance to join them and yet she had none of that?
Joanne could feel his unspoken judgment, and frankly, she didn't blame him. She had studied business; she knew how important networking was.
"I know," she admitted, rubbing the bridge of her nose. "I should have focused on that, but… I've been too busy with the farm and… I just never had the time."
JD let out another breath, shaking his head. Yeah, that was clear.
"Yeah, you barely have time to drink," he said with a smirk, but beneath the teasing, he understood.
